When the blocked phones were turned on, the network service provider portal sent information to the complainant and the police station, helping officials track and recover the phones.

Most of the recovered phones were traced to Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, with areas like Kambam, Theni, and Coimbatore being major hotspots.

Currently, the Pathanamthitta police are planning to expand their investigation to these areas and are advising people to exercise caution when purchasing second-hand phones.

The police cyber help desk has proven to be an effective tool in recovering lost phones and is likely to continue assisting pilgrims in the future.